Which Hampton Roads Community Is Right For You?

You won’t find a more diverse state in the union than Virginia. Whether your interests draw you to Colonial history, the beach, or the mountains, there is a community in Virginia perfect for a lengthy visit or even a permanent stay. If you are considering a move to the southeastern part of Virginia, you may settle in the sprawling region known as Hampton Roads. Bordering the Chesapeake Bay, Hampton Roads is comprised of several towns and cities – each possessing unique qualities that make them attractive to new residents.

Yet, which is the right Hampton Roads community for you? As a new resident, there are many factors to ponder before contacting a Realtor to buy a home. Families will want to know about schools, libraries, and recreational possibilities, while job seekers may be curious about traffic and commuting, as well as the cost of living. If a move to Hampton Roads is in your future, consider the varying factors of each community as they compare to your lifestyle, and you may find a perfect fit. Here is a brief summary of the major communities in this area:

Virginia Beach

This seaside town is a very popular vacation destination, and is home to one of the largest naval bases in the world. If you are in the military and about to transfer to the area, you may find the proximity to work a deciding factor. Virginia Beach is known in the region for having a strong public school system and is also home to Regent University and a branch of Tidewater Community College. Major companies like Stihl and the Christian Broadcasting Network have set up headquarters in Virginia Beach.

Norfolk

Another military town in the Hampton Roads regions, Norfolk sits on the Elizabeth River and overlooks another community, Portsmouth. Norfolk prides itself on a rich history (it is the final resting place of General Douglas MacArthur), a winning tradition of education and college basketball (it is home to Old Dominion University), and a love of the arts. Visitors and residents may enjoy the Chrysler Museum of Art, the Harrison Opera House, and upscale shopping at MacArthur Center. Norfolk is fast becoming a town for urban living, with downtown condos and lofts waiting for new owners.

Hampton

On the other side of the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel, across from Norfolk, sits the town of Hampton. Known mainly for Hampton University, a renowned historically black college, Hampton also offers neighborhoods of historic homes and an impressive military presence. You’ll find Langley Air Force Base here, as well as the NASA Langley Research Center. If you enjoy fun in the sun, Buckroe Beach isn’t far.

Newport News

This growing Hampton Roads community is known mainly for its shipyards and the Fort Eustis Army base. Situated between Hampton and Williamsburg, Newport News offers affordable housing and a short commute for people employed in either town. Residents interested in furthering their education may attend the local Christopher Newport University or enrich their appreciation of maritime history at The Mariners’ Museum.

Williamsburg

One of the earliest U.S. settlements, Williamsburg was once the capital of our nation. It is home to The College of William and Mary, the country’s second-oldest university, which can name three Presidents as alumni. The greater Williamsburg area encompasses the preserved Colonial Williamsburg district, a popular year-round tourist destination, and the original Jamestown settlement. A known community popular with retirees, Williamsburg hosts an annual PGA golf tournament and is home to the Busch Gardens Europe theme park.

Whether you seek proximity to culture, outdoor recreation, or historical interests, there is a community in the Hampton Roads area perfect for your lifestyle and income. Explore the towns and cities along the Chesapeake Bay and find your new home in Virginia.